These two words can be confusing to students of Spanish whose native language is English because they are often translated as the same words into English.

When the two words do not carry a written accent are used as linking words (relative pronouns) translated 'that' or 'which'. With an accent they are used as interrogative words in questions to mean 'what' and 'which'.

Here, we are going to look at the differences between "¿Qué?" and "¿Cuál?"

Most of you were taught at school that “¿qué?” is closer to 'what?' and “¿cuál?” is closer to 'which?'. This notion is of some use, but can often be misleading.

"¿Qué?" and "¿Cuál?" can both mean 'what?' and "¿Cuál?" is also used to express 'which?'.

The main difference is that "¿qué?" can be followed by a noun or a verb but "¿cuál? can only be followed by a veb or the preposition "de". Let's see some examples:

1. "¿Cuál?" and "¿Qué?" to suggest a choice within a group

When the question implies a choice between two or more alternatives and conveys the idea of selection, ¿Cuál + verb/preposition? or ¿Qué + noun? can be used.

¿Cuál + verb/preposition?

a. ¿Cuál de las tres casas es más cara? (Which of the three houses is more expensive?)

b. ¿Cuál de las dos ciudades está en la costa? (Which of the two cities is on the coast?)

n. ¿Cúal prefieres, este o ese? (Which one do you prefer; this or that one?)

ñ. ¿Qué quieres comprar? (What do you want to buy?)

o. ¿Cuál quieres comprar? (Which one do you want to buy?)

Quality High Canvas Bag Purple Cross Fashion Zycshang Handbags Shoulder Handbag Female Women'S Vintage Bags Holder Change Totes Pouch Soft Bags Shouder Hobos Sale Body Single Handbag Key Note: When asking about preferences both "qué" and "cuál" can be used. "Qué" is generally used when the items you are asking about are not on your sight and options are not given to you. And "cuál" when you have them in your hands or in front of you, or are specific items.